I’ve been going through the common threads of the best presentations in the world with my classes.

While the convention for how to deliver a presentation is not set in stone, there is one common element that unites the best: a story.

The best stories aren’t the ones that show-off the person, but rather the ones that relate to the audience.

They are the stories that actually encompass someone listening to say, “This is my story as well.” It’s the tactic of every politician, but the execution of those who want their message heard.

If you want to relate to your audience… and you want them on your side… you must tell them a story — one they feel is theirs.